Microsoft Scientist Warns U.S. Research Cuts Could Cede AI Leadership to China
Eric Horvitz, Microsoft's chief scientist, has issued a rare public critique of the TRUMP administration's research funding cuts, warning they may jeopardize America's competitive edge in artificial intelligence. The tech executive's Financial Times comments mark a departure from industry leaders' typical reluctance to challenge government policy.
Academic research budgets have faced billions in reductions since 2017, with officials framing cuts as fiscal discipline or ideological stances. Horvitz questions the strategic wisdom of weakening domestic innovation pipelines while competing with China's accelerating tech investments.
The critique highlights growing tension between Silicon Valley and Washington over research priorities. While universities have consistently opposed funding reductions, corporate leaders have largely avoided public confrontation with the administration.
